Early Years

Book Trust works with early years professionals to deliver Bookstart, the national early-intervention literacy programme that offers the gift of free books and parental guidance to inspire a love of reading and give children a flying start in life.

Additional support

Book Trust works with children who need additional support offering: braille, large print and accessible books; dual language resources; targeted schools' programmes; and the Letterbox Club for children in foster families.

Books to perform

11 August 2011

Julia will be talking about the importance of drama and performance throughout her time as Children's Laureate. She says: ‘With my background in plays and song-writing, I am particularly keen to develop projects which link books with drama and music, and to explore the ways performance can help children enjoy reading and grow in confidence.’

Picture books make an ideal starting point for performance activities in and out of the classroom. Julia explains: 'One thing I love about picture books is that they are short...you can share one in a session and perhaps act it as well. Whenever I do author visits I get children to act out picture books.'

Julia has now created a list of some of the favourite picture books she recommends for children to perform, including favourites by much-loved authors such as Shirley Hughes, Maurice Sendack and Michael Rosen. Take a look at Julia's list of great picture books to perform - and let us know in the comments below which books you would add to the list!